About The Song
“Little Old Lady from Pasadena” is a classic surf rock song performed by Jan and Dean. Released in 1964, it’s known for its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics. Let’s explore the details of this iconic track.
Background:
- Artists: “Little Old Lady from Pasadena” was recorded by Jan and Dean, an American rock duo known for their surf music and vocal harmonies.
- Release Date: The song was released in 1964 as a single and later included on Jan and Dean’s album “Ride the Wild Surf.”
- Composers: It was written by Don Altfeld, Roger Christian, and Jan Berry.
Musical Style:
- Genre: The song falls into the surf rock and hot rod genres, characterized by its energetic rhythm and driving beat.
- Instrumentation: It features electric guitars, drums, and vocal harmonies, creating a vibrant and dynamic musical arrangement.
- Vocals: Jan and Dean deliver spirited vocal performances, capturing the excitement and fun of the song’s narrative.
Lyrics:
- Theme: “Little Old Lady from Pasadena” is a song about a senior citizen who defies stereotypes and lives life to the fullest.
- Narrative: The lyrics describe the titular “little old lady” as a fearless driver who races her souped-up car around town, much to the surprise of onlookers.
- Humor: The song is filled with playful and humorous imagery, highlighting the contrast between the elderly woman’s appearance and her adventurous spirit.
Cultural Impact:
- Chart Success: “Little Old Lady from Pasadena” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of Jan and Dean’s most popular songs.
- Legacy: It’s considered one of the classic surf rock anthems of the 1960s and has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials.
- Impact: “Little Old Lady from Pasadena” remains a beloved favorite among fans of surf music and hot rod culture, with its infectious melody and playful lyrics continuing to entertain listeners of all ages.
Conclusion:
“Little Old Lady from Pasadena” stands as a timeless classic of surf rock, showcasing Jan and Dean’s talent for crafting catchy and lighthearted songs. With its energetic rhythm, witty lyrics, and spirited vocals, the song captures the carefree spirit of the 1960s and celebrates the idea of defying expectations and embracing life’s adventures. As a cultural landmark of the era, it remains a cherished favorite among fans of Jan and Dean and surf rock music, serving as a joyful reminder of the power of music to uplift and inspire.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics!
It’s the little old lady from Pasadena
The little old lady from Pasadena
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
Has a pretty little flowerbed of white gardenias
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
But parked in a rickety old garage
Is a brand new, shiny red, super-stock Dodge
And everybody’s sayin’ that there’s nobody meaner
Than the little old lady from Pasadena
She drives real fast and she drives real hard
She’s the terror of Colorado Boulevard
It’s the little old lady from Pasadena
If you see her on the street, don’t try to choose her
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
You might drive a goer but you’ll never lose her
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
Well, she’s gonna get a ticket now sooner or later
‘Cause she can’t keep her foot off the accelerator
And everybody’s sayin’ that there’s nobody meaner
Than the little old lady from Pasadena
She drives real fast and she drives real hard
She’s the terror of Colorado Boulevard
It’s the little old lady from Pasadena
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)
The guys come to race her from miles around
But she’ll give ’em a length, then she’ll shut ’em down
And everybody’s sayin’ that there’s nobody meaner
Than the little old lady from Pasadena
She drives real fast and she drives real hard
She’s the terror of Colorado Boulevard
It’s the little old lady from Pasadena
(Go granny, go granny, go granny, go)…